Leader question: *Is there a substantial difference between same brand 9’ 6X leader with 18” removed and say a 7.5’ 4X leader with nothing removed? *Is there a formula to compare shortened 9 ' leaders with full lenght 7.5' leaders??

I would definately think that as long as you stick with a specific brand that the only thing that would change would be the the rate of which the taper changes from section to section. 7.5 foot leader tapering down to its smallest diameter faster than a 9. I would also think if you were planning on removing a section to do so from the butt end so that it would not present a problem in presentation. Most manufactures use at least 18" to 24" inches of the finest diameter so that maybe something to keep in mind. I've seen a nymphing technice similar to a dry and dropper where you take the leader and cut it into three sections. Ive got a book around the house somewhere with that info.

I really don't think taking out a specific section of your leader will either help or hurt unless your throughing.\